1937 - 2026
Born on July 31, 1937, in Brooklyn, New York, Lester was the son of the late Lester H. and Thelma C. (Jay) Burch. He spent his early years growing up in Detroit and Grand Haven, Michigan, before eventually settling in Massachusetts, where he had lived for the past 45 years.
Lester earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Valparaiso University in Indiana and later received his Master’s Degree from Michigan State University. A lifelong educator, he dedicated his career to shaping young minds and building strong school communities. He began as a high school teacher and later served as a high school principal for more than 30 years, working in both Michigan and Massachusetts, including many years at Walpole High School.
Following his retirement from education, Lester pursued his lifelong love of music. A gifted vocalist, he became a singer and performer, entertaining audiences for more than a decade as a Sinatra and Tony Bennett–style vocalist. He brought joy to countless listeners through performances at restaurants, public events, and retirement communities.
Lester is survived by his loving children, Adam Burch and his wife Michele of Norfolk, and Nathan Burch of Wrentham. He also leaves his sister, Kathi Kishkorn, his cousin Kathy Jay Burch, and his cherished grandchildren, Remy Burch, Sydney Burch, and Dylan Burch, all of Norfolk.
His funeral service will be held on Tuesday, January 27, at 11:00 a.m. at the Original Congregational Church of Wrentham. Burial will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery in Walpole.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, January 26, at the Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin, 131 Main Street, Franklin (ginleyfuneralhomes.com).
